Malaysia is the rising star of South-East Asian tourism, a nation looking to the future while cherishing the ways of the past. Centuries of trade have resulted in a vibrant mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous tribal cultures, creating a veritable melting pot of peoples, traditions and religions. The region now known as Malaysia was first mentioned in Chinese and Sanskrit records of the seventh and eighth centuries. In subsequent centuries the area was under the influence and loose control of various Thai and Indonesian empires, including the great Sumatra-based civilisation of Sri Vijaya. This was followed in the 14th century by the Majapahit Empire based in Java. Sri Vijaya and Majapahit, Buddhist and Hindu respectively, both left a mark on the peninsula. But, even by the 14th century, Islam was steadily spreading eastwards.  A mixed history highlights why Malaysia is so ethnically and culturally diverse. Even better, the magnificent landscape is no less diverse – dense jungles, soaring peaks and lush tropical rainforests harbour an abundant flora and fauna. Tropical island resorts and endless white, sandy beaches offer a taste of paradise, while beneath warm coral seas, world-class dive sites await exploration. Orang-utans, the oldest rainforest in the world, city skyscrapers and majestic mosques and temples plus a gorgeous coastline are enough to tempt even the most jaded visitor.